Arsenal are not expecting any ‘imminent’ decisions over Arsene Wenger’s future but the Gunners are planning for the Frenchman’s departure, Ivan Gazidis has revealed.

The 66-year-old came in for fierce criticism towards the end of last season when Arsenal capitulated in the Premier League and were knocked out of the FA Cup by Watford.

The Frenchman has one year remaining on his deal at the Emirates and he’s denied that he’s been offered a new deal at the club.

Gunners chief executive, Ivan Gazidis, says the club are unanimous in their backing for the 66-year-old but says they have to look ahead for Wenger’s departure.

Wenger came in for huge criticism last season (Picture: Getty)

‘He’s in his mid-sixties, it’s natural to think about when his time here might come to an end, but the truth is nobody knows’ Gazidis told the Telegraph.

Advertisement

Advertisement

‘He is in fantastic shape. He is deeply engaged and excited. One of the biggest challenges we will face is the transition, whenever it happens, but that is not something we are going to be facing imminently.

‘Obviously, he is going to be managing us next year and we are planning and making many decisions for the long term.

‘The reality is we wouldn’t leave things until the last minute. I’m comfortable both that if Arsène is going to extend we will know that and if, whenever that is, he is going to come to an end, that he will give us the time that we need to prepare for that transition.

‘The relationship with Arsène is very deep. It will be done behind closed doors and we will have our transition plans well worked out.’